The Carolina Panthers held off the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a final score of 22-13 in a crucial Week 7 matchup of the 2026 season. With playoff aspirations on the line, the Panthers' victory solidified their standing in the competitive NFC South. Bryce Young led the charge for Carolina, throwing for 267 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his growth as a franchise quarterback. Chuba Hubbard contributed significantly on the ground with 67 rushing yards, helping to keep the Buccaneers' defense on their heels. Meanwhile, Ted Hurst III was the standout receiver for Tampa Bay, racking up 122 receiving yards but ultimately unable to find the end zone. Defensively, the Panthers made a critical impact, highlighted by Bobby Okereke's interception that shifted momentum in their favor. While the Buccaneers' Yaya Diaby tallied 2.5 sacks, it was Carolina's ability to stifle key drives and force turnovers that proved decisive. The turning point came in the second half when Okereke's pick thwarted a potential game-tying drive, allowing the Panthers to maintain their lead and secure the win.